Sheraton Hacienda Del Mar Golf & Spa Resort

September 15, 2011

Architecturally, this 270-room property resembles a hacienda, with lush tropical landscaping, wrought-iron accents, and adobe structures framed by curving arches reminiscent of Spanish style. The property will appeal to older couples, groups, and families with young children.

The spacious rooms, featuring Starwood Sweet Sleeper beds, were undergoing a desperately-needed soft-goods renovation when we toured in December 2010; the renovation was scheduled for completion by mid-2011. Ocean-view rooms have nice views of Cabo's cobalt blue waters. Many of the garden-view rooms look out on peaceful tropical greenery and bright-blooming bougainvillea. Floors 19, 20, and 21 are the Starwood Preferred Guest club level rooms.

During our tour, we observed a few unfortunate examples of lack of attention to details. For example, we spotted cigarette butts in the antique agave-mashing pit, a century-old large stone vessel once used by tequila-makers, and proudly pointed out by our tour guide as an historical artifact on Sheraton's property grounds. During our lunch at Tomatoes Restaurant, the wait staff was friendly and willing, but mixed up drink orders for several of our party. These details are minor irritations that most easy-going guests will overlook, especially in light of the resort's beautiful location overlooking a golf course ... but if your client expects perfection, steer them to a five-star, instead.